Depression among children and adolescent - symptoms, appearance and treatment

Abstract

Depression in childhood and adolescent age is often difficult to recognize since it presents with various symptoms commonly very similar to behaviorsnaturally occurring in normative crises of this age such as identity crisis. In puberty, episodes of low and changeable mood, irritability are often present as part of development but these alone do not fulfill the criteria of depression. In general, sadness and mood changes are part of the emotional development and important aspects of human nature. What is important in identifying clinical depression is the intensity and severity of the symptoms, how long are they present and the level of disruption in functionality (for example: difficulties in studying and concentration, disruption of social connections) caused by the symptoms. It is often difficult for a parents or teachers to recognize the various symptoms of depression, in addition to the wide spread misconceptions and biases in connection to depression often prevent caregivers or adolescents to ask for help. Deciding whether the child or adolescent has depression and needs professional help is always a professional question, thus it is advised to see a psychologist or psychiatrist in case of worrying or disruptive symptoms. In the following summary concerning depression in childhood and adolescence, we attempt to give a detailed description of the various symptoms of depression in different age groups, possible treatment approaches, and steps to take for caregivers.